Chapter 9 - Religion and Reform, 1815-1855

Summary

The young republic sped through rapid social change in the early 1800s—change that brought not only new benefits but also new regional and cultural tensions. A growing and dynamic reform movement urged Americans to seek both personal and social improvements, shaping society and the nation for generations to come.

Chapter Outline

Section 1: Reforming Society

Revivalists and transcendentalists urged Americans to improve themselves and society. Reformers set out to battle social problems such as alcoholism, poor education, and inhumane prisons.

Section 1: Writing an Essay: The Temperance Movement

Using the links below, examine documents and sources from the temperance movement of the early 1800s. Based on your research, write an essay evaluating the factors that helped the movement grow and the challenges the movement faced.Papers of Stanton and AnthonyArdent Spirits